Magnhild Kennedy's Mask-Making Journey from Trondheim to London

Magnhild Kennedy, a self-taught mask-maker based in London, began her creative journey after moving from Oslo in 2007. Growing up in Trondheim, Norway, she was inspired by The Face magazine. She learned sewing by watching YouTube tutorials while working at a vintage design shop in Islington. Her masks, made from found and vintage materials, have gained a cult following on Instagram under the handle @damselfrau. Kennedy's parents were fine artists, and she describes herself as always a maker. She prefers used materials for their inherent personality. Her masks are created without preparatory drawings, and she often works on multiple pieces simultaneously. Each mask is named after completion, and she photographs herself wearing it for social media. The name Damselfrau, a portmanteau meaning 'married to oneself,' reflects her artistic identity. Kennedy is preparing for her first major exhibition in Norway at The National Museum of Decorative Arts in Trondheim.